Short Stories From Quarroc: The First Door Prelude

Welcome to the curious desert land of Quarroc.  Do not mind the heat my friends, it is a dry heat that bakes the sand and clay alike.  The drab background of light tan buildings indistinguishable from the ground only serve to curate the colorful apparel of the residents.  As we enter the main gate, we are greeted by the din and hubub of the bazaar.  Watch your valuables!  And watch your tongue even more so with the sellers!  If one isn’t careful, one could wind up penniless just buying a coffee mug.  Be skilled in negotiating, or else leave the bargaining to me.  Move quickly now.  We don’t wish to be trampled.
Ah, how about some refreshment?  Now sit back and relax, we have an excellent view of the palace.  Oh, I know the plain exterior isn’t terribly exciting.  But look at that size!  Huh.  Oh, never mind me.  I just happened to notice that man over there, in the grey.  So unusual to see one of the old timers here.  Young you say?  Ha, you are right.  Around here “old timer” refers to the practitioners of the old ways.  They once ruled the land.  People rejoiced when our king subdued them.  They forced the tenants of their beliefs upon the nonbeliever and murdered many in horrific ways.  They avoid the palace area as a rule.  So what is one doing here?  I do hope it is nothing despicable…